Steve Toth, a Texas state representative, won the Republican primary in Texas’ 2nd Congressional District, defeating four-term incumbent Dan Crenshaw and two other challengers, Martin Etwop and Nicholas Plumb. Toth now advances as the Republican nominee for the November general election.

Toth received high-profile support from Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who praised him as a defender of Texas values, including liberty, limited government, school choice, and fiscal responsibility. Cruz said Toth is an “unwavering fighter for the next generation of Americans” and called for bold leadership in Washington.

Crenshaw, who did not receive President Donald Trump’s endorsement, criticized Toth’s attacks on his conservative record, asserting his loyalty to MAGA principles and defense of Trump’s policies. He emphasized his record of defending conservative positions on issues such as Ukraine and immigration while serving in Congress.

The primary was closely watched, as Crenshaw was the only incumbent Republican on the ballot in Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas who lacked Trump’s backing. Toth’s victory signals a shift toward candidates with strong Trump-aligned support and conservative credentials in key Texas districts.

With this win, Toth is favored in the Republican-leaning 2nd District to carry the seat in November and continue advancing conservative policies at the federal level.